Electron Beam Welding of Long Stainless Steel Vacuum Chamber Part

A Virginia nuclear physics laboratory asked KTI, Inc. to improve the quality of welds in vacuum chambers used in its’ research equipment. The client was seeking a way to minimize excess heat input, distortion, and variation in magnetic properties that result from conventional fusion welding.

KTI consulted with the customer to design an electron beam specific weld joint that optimized virtual leak performance at ultra high vacuum. The weld process was developed, and the performance of the design was validated at KTI using sample coupons provided by the customer. KTI fabricated clamping fixtures to secure the parts for welding using its’ internal machining capabilities. Electron beam welding of the 316L Stainless Steel component satisfied the full penetration requirement of .135”. The overall dimensions of the part were 126" long, 5.7" tall and 1.0” wide.

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